The Paleontology Certification program consists of eight required courses that provide students with an introduction to the history of life as revealed through the fossil record as well as a basic knowledge of the theories and techniques of paleontology. Individuals receive the Certificate of Competency after they have completed the mandatory classes.
Introductory Courses
Paleontology 101 **
Five Lecture Sessions + Exam and One Field Trip
Reading Colorado: An Introduction to Geology **
Five Lecture Sessions and Two Field Trips
Curation of Fossils **
Five Lecture/Workshop Sessions
Paleontology of the Western Interior **
Four Lecture Sessions
Evolution **
Four Lecture Sessions
Lecture + Lab Courses
It is strongly recommended to complete the Prerequisite Courses before registering for any Lecture + Lab Courses
(Choose two of the following)
Vertebrate Paleontology I: Fishes to Birds **
Five Lecture + Lab Sessions + Final Exam
Vertebrate Paleontology II: Mammals **
Six Lecture + Lab Sessions + Final Exam
Invertebrate Paleontology I: Precambrian & Paleozoic **
Four Lecture + Lab Sessions
Invertebrate Paleontology II: Mesozoic & Cenozoic **
Four Lecture + Lab Sessions
Paleobotany **
Four Lecture + Lab Sessions and One Field Trip
Research & Writing Course
It is strongly recommended to complete all other Prerequisite Courses before registering for this course.
Research Methods and Report Writing **
Four Lecture Sessions
** Teacher Graduate Recertification Credit is now offered for all Paleontology Certificate courses through the Colorado Schools of Mines. Please indicate when you register for courses that you are interested in the Recertification Credit. Note: An additional charge will apply for the credit offered.
Download the 2008 Paleontology Certification Course Descriptions (PDF | 131KB)
